The parties say the agreement is the first of its kind in Saskatchewan.

Saskatchewan RCMP Assistant Commissioner Mark Fisher says in a press release police have a lot to benefit from First Nations assistance including specialized skills, equipment and expertise in water searches.

He adds early communication and cooperation with local community members is essential in any missing persons case.

Police have already partnered with PAGC on search and rescue operations in the past.

This includes the search for four-year-old Sweetgrass Kennedy last summer.

(PHOTO: PAGC, local police and RCMP have signed a new search and rescue agreement. Photo courtesy of www.pagc.sk.ca.)